Write Your Own Commentary

Have you started your own commentary yet? It’s easy and will help your understanding.

As you read through a passage, journal as if you are explaining the verses to someone else. Write as if you are trying to explain it to a 10 year old child. Children are smart but have less tendency to appreciate lofty sanctimonious writing. You do not want to sound like a dusty scholar.

If you get to a part that is a little confusing resist the temptation to look at another commentary. Use your own thoughts. Write your own words. List cross-references and external sources if you need to.

After you have written your thoughts, then check another commentary. Does it line up? Should it line up? Remember commentaries are just another man’s thoughts.

What you are doing is establishing your own record of your understanding of God’s word. You can refer to it later if you forget. Your children can use it as a reference. Your grandchildren will see it as a treasure.

Teachers have long known that explaining to other people is the best way to learn. Use this technique to your spiritual advantage, start a commentary!

For his glory,

Justin “Vol. X Ch. II” Johnson